All-On-4 Dental Implants

What Are All-On-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants are implant-supported dentures that use only four implants each to support a full-arch replacement for missing teeth. A dentist places the implants in strategic locations in the mouth and jawbone and attaches custom-made dentures to them. The denture design looks and functions like natural teeth, allowing patients to easily eat, speak, and smile.

The All-on-4 implant system takes advantage of the patient’s existing bone structure, with the placement of the implants allowing for optimal support for the prosthetic teeth. Dentists often recommend this for patients who have limited jawbone density, as it allows them to receive implant-supported teeth with no additional bone grafting procedures.

If you’re interested in All-on-4 dental implants, contact our Atlanta dentist today at (404) 524-1981 to schedule a consultation.

Benefits of All-On-4

Benefits of the All-on-4 implant system include:

• Can support a full arch of replacement teeth with just four implants, which is less invasive than traditional implant placement.
• They can replace an entire arch of teeth in just one day, allowing individuals to leave the dental office with a new smile the same day.
• They look, feel, and function like natural teeth, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile proudly.
• They also help preserve the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining a more youthful appearance.

How All-on-4 Dental Implants Work

The All-on-4 dental implant procedure uses just four dental implants to support a full arch of teeth. It’s an innovative and effective dental restoration solution for people who have lost most or all of their teeth and want a permanent, long-lasting, and natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth.

The procedure involves the secure placement of four dental implants in strategic locations in the jaw, where the bone density is most substantial. This provides the necessary support for an entire arch of teeth to be attached to the implant posts. Sometimes, bone grafting may be required before the procedure to ensure the implants have enough bone to support them.

The All-on-4 Dental Implant Process

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

The journey begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Kauffman at our downtown Atlanta implant dental office. During this appointment, Dr. Kauffman will conduct a comprehensive examination, which may include X-rays, 3D scans, and a thorough evaluation of your oral health. 

Treatment Planning

Once Dr. Kauffman deems you a suitable candidate for All-on-4 implants, the next phase involves detailed treatment planning. Using advanced digital planning software, Dr. Kauffman will map out the precise locations and angles for the four implants. This step also involves designing prosthetic arches, ensuring a seamless, natural-looking outcome.

Surgical Procedure

On the day of the surgery, you’ll receive local anesthetics or sedation to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. If necessary, Dr. Kauffman will extract any remaining teeth. Then, the oral surgeon will strategically place four implants — two straight implants at the front of the jaw and two angled implants at the back. 

Healing and Integration

Over the next several months, a crucial process called osseointegration will take place. During this time, the implants will fuse with the jawbone, creating a strong and lasting foundation for the permanent prosthesis. Follow post-operative instructions and attend periodic follow-up appointments to monitor the healing progress.

Final Restoration

Once the healing and integration process is complete, you’ll return to our downtown Atlanta dental office to have the temporary prosthesis removed and replaced with your permanent, customized full-arch prosthesis. Your final restoration will be meticulously crafted to achieve optimal fit, function, and aesthetics, ensuring a natural-looking and comfortable smile.

Maintenance and Follow-up

After the All-on-4 procedure, proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups with our downtown Atlanta dentist are essential to maintain the longevity and health of your new smile. Dr. Kauffman will provide comprehensive instructions on caring for your implants and prosthesis, as well as recommend routine cleanings and adjustments as needed over time.

Who Needs All-On-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 dental implants may be an excellent option for those who have lost most or all of their teeth. They’re also an option for people who have a limited amount of jawbone and aren’t candidates for traditional implant placement. Patients who aren’t comfortable with removable traditional dentures may benefit from All-on-4 implants.

Cons of All-On-4

All-on-4 can be an excellent option for tooth replacement. However, there are some cons to keep in mind:

• All-on-4 dental implants are more expensive than traditional implants, and the cost can vary depending on the individual case.
• They require a longer healing time compared to traditional dental implants.
• There’s a higher risk of implant failure, as all four implants are required to support the full arch of replacement teeth.

All-on-4 Dental Implant Costs

The cost of the All-on-4 dental implant treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the dental practice, the experience of the dentist, the number of implants required, treatment time, and the materials used.

On average, the cost of an All-on-4 dental implant procedure can range from $20,000 to $50,000 per arch. However, this cost can be lower than traditional implant placement, as fewer implants are required.

Discuss the cost of the procedure with your dentist during the initial consultation. They can provide you with an estimate and discuss any financing options that may be available.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do All-on-4 dental implants last?

All-on-4 dental implants can last a lifetime when cared for properly. Patients should maintain a good oral hygiene routine, attend regular dental checkups and cleanings, and avoid habits that can damage the implants, such as smoking or biting hard objects.

Is the All-on-4 dental implant process painful?

The All-on-4 dental implant procedure is a surgery typically performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation, so patients shouldn’t feel any pain. Some may experience mild discomfort and swelling for a few days after implant surgery, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and cold compresses.

Can I eat and speak normally with All-on-4 dental implants?

Yes. Since All-on-4 dental implants are designed to look and function like natural teeth, patients can eat and speak normally. However, it may take some time for patients to adjust to life with their new teeth, and speech therapy may be recommended in certain cases.

Are All-on-4 implants worth it?

The All-on-4 procedure is often considered worth it for those who want a permanent solution to replace their missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip and cause discomfort, All-on-4 implants are securely anchored in the bone and don’t require adhesives. They also offer greater stability and can improve your ability to speak and eat.

Is the All-on-4 Treatment Right for You?

If you’re interested in All-on-4 dental implants, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified doctor or dental professional. During this consultation, your dentist or implant specialist will evaluate your dental health, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if the All-on-4 dental implant system is the right solution for you.

Are you looking for dental implants in Atlanta? Contact our dentist today at (404) 524-1981 to schedule your consultation.